Board of Directors
Jeremy Kruid
Founder and Chairman
As the founder of VConn Inc, Jeremy is determined to ensure that all veterans can find all the assistance that is available at their fingertips. Jeremy’s own experience in various VA clinics and hospitals is what drove him to conceptualize and start the development of the VCONN platform. Jeremy served in the Marine Corps as a Machine Gunner from 2006 to 2010. He spent the majority of 2009 in Afghanistan as a member of the personal security for the Battalion Commander. Upon leaving the Marines, he moved to Texas. After a couple years he submitted his first disability claim and underwent his comp and pen exams at DeBakey Medical Center. Eventually he was sent to get a blood sample and that is where he realized we are doing our veterans a disservice and VCONN became a vision. Jeremy stood there and first-hand saw how horrible the VA medical care system can be as the waiting room for the labs was standing room only. Eventually, he had a trip to a VA clinic in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and while it was not horrible, it was not what Veterans deserve. He was referred to a rheumatologist in New Orleans, Louisiana which was marginally better than DeBakey but still an overcrowded mess. Jeremy received a diagnosis of arthritis that made it very challenging to secure a job.
A VSO at a veterans home in Louisiana assisted Jeremy in the completion of the subsequent disability application. The process took over a year from start to finish and during this time, he experienced significant difficulty in finding employment. Jeremy became mostly reliant on the Ch33 GI Bill housing stipend and his wife’s income to survive. The entire time thinking he kept thinking “this is a mess” and “someone has to do something about this!” It became clear that if nobody had, nobody would so Jeremy embarked on the quest to teach himself how to write mobile software and made it a mission to fix this problem for fellow veterans. Regarding the Vision or Platform Development, please contact Jeremy at: (712) 348-3940 or Jeremy@vconn.org.
Jake Hicks
Vice Chairman
As Vice Chair of VCONN, Jake Hicks is dedicated to bridging the gap between veterans, their families, and the essential resources they need to thrive. A retired Army Warrant Officer, Jake served with distinction as a Green Beret and Helicopter Pilot in multiple combat deployments, bringing a wealth of experience and insight into the challenges faced by veterans. Jake is a licensed mental health therapist in Texas, specializing in crisis intervention and trauma care, with a deep passion for supporting those who have served our nation. He actively collaborates with numerous non-profits to coordinate comprehensive care for veterans and their families, particularly focusing on those experiencing homelessness and those involved in the justice system. His work extends beyond therapy, as he continuously engages with community partners and caregiving organizations to create a robust support network for those in need. Beyond his role at VCONN, Jake continues to serve the military community by providing training and mentorship to Special Forces Units on Unconventional Warfare tactics through government contracting. His dedication to service is further exemplified by his involvement as a George W. Bush Presidential Veteran Leadership Alum and memberships in various organizations, including the International Conference of Police Chaplains (ICPC), LifeLine Chaplaincy (Board Member), Veteran Advocates Services Training (VAST), and the Special Forces Association (SFA). Jake's unwavering commitment to his fellow veterans drives his strategic outreach efforts at VCONN, where he tirelessly works to ensure that no veteran or family member is left without the support and resources they deserve. Regarding Strategic Partnerships or Veteran Service Organizations, please contact Jacob at: (832) 248-6770 or Jake@vconn.org.
Nathan Rayburn
Treasurer
Nathan Rayburn, VCONN Treasurer, is a distinguished board member for VCONN, offering a rich blend of experience and dedication across multiple domains. His professional path is marked by a strong commitment to service, leadership, and design. Nathan began his career in the Army, as a Religious Support Specialist, where he served for eight years. In this role, he was instrumental in providing support for the unit ministry team, programs, and worship services, while also providing support to the Chaplains during missions and everyday activities. Nathan also worked as the Funds Clerk for the Fort Carson Chaplain’s fund, bookkeeping for all the chapels, religious organizations and unit ministry teams on the installation. Currently, Nathan applies his skills as a CAD Designer, where his expertise in computer-aided design is evident. His work in this field highlights his precision and technical proficiency, allowing him to contribute effectively in a different, yet impactful, manner. Nathan Rayburn’s diverse background provides him with a unique perspective that greatly benefits his role as a board member for VCONN. His commitment to service and his technical acumen makes him a valuable and versatile asset to the organization. (719) 321-1088 or Nathan@vconn.org.
Shanna Johnson
Director of Fundraising
Shanna Johnson brings to VCONN many years of experience in fundraising for IRS 501(c)(3) sanctioned organizations and her Significant Other is a Retired US Navy SEAL. Living in Southern California with close proximity to Camp Pendleton, Miramar, and Coronado bases, she has many friends and family that are serving or have served. Shanna looks forward donating her time for the benefit of the men, women, and children of those that sacrifice so much for our Freedom! Shanna holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an Option in High Technology Management from California State University San Marcos (CSUSM) and started her early career at QUALCOMM, Inc. in the Globalstar division. There she was a Communications Specialist for the low Earth Satellite phones that were used heavily by the Military. She was then recruited by a Software Outsourcing firm so she brings a lot of experience to VCONN in Software Development. In 2004, Shanna received her MBA with an Option in International Business and Supply Chain Management and went to work for Nokia Mobile Phones bringing cell phones to market at a Global Level. Her career encompasses many leadership roles in Software, Telecom, and Electronic Manafacturing as well as entreneurial periods owning a Collison Center and a Specialty Food company. Shanna currently is Director of Project Management and Operational Excellence at ARAMSCO. She has an 18 year old son and a 15 year daughter. For Sponsorship, Donations, or Grants, please contact her at: (760) 994-7518 or Shanna@vconn.org.
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